Serena Williams’ former coach, Rennae Stubbs, has drawn parallels between rising tennis star Jannik Sinner and the reigning World No. 1, Novak Djokovic.
Stubbs made these observations in light of Sinner’s remarkable performance at the outset of the 2024 season, culminating in his triumph at the Australian Open. The Italian prodigy secured the championship by defeating Daniil Medvedev in the showdown.
En route to his title victory, Sinner conquered a formidable lineup of opponents, including Botic van de Zandschulp, Jesper De Jong, Sebastian Baez, Karen Khachanov, Andrey Rublev, and the defending champion Djokovic himself.
Following his Australian Open success, Sinner continued to excel at the ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam. Overcoming challenges posed by Van de Zandschulp, Gaël Monfils, Milos Raonic (W/O), Tallon Griekspoor, and Alex de Minaur, he clinched his second title of the season.
This achievement propelled him to a career-high ranking of World No. 3, displacing Medvedev from the position.
During a recent episode of the ‘Racquet’s Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast,’ Stubbs engaged in a discussion with Andrea Petković, comparing Sinner with fellow rising star Carlos Alcaraz.
In her analysis, Stubbs expressed her belief in Sinner’s superior potential, highlighting his evolving repertoire of shots and crediting his coach, Darren Cahill, for instrumental improvements in various aspects of his game.
“I think that [Jannik] Sinner has more upside [than Carlos Alcaraz],” Stubbs remarked. “I think he can improve at executing the dropshot, which he’s already incorporating into his game.
He’s using that forehand drop shot effectively, even winning critical points against Alex de Minaur, who is arguably the best mover in tennis.” “He executed it a couple of times against him during crucial moments, including breakpoints.
I also see improvement in his net game, significantly influenced by Darren [Cahill]. So, I believe he’s making strides with his drop shots and slice backhand. It’s a work in progress,” the Australian continued.
Stubbs further emphasized Sinner’s defensive prowess, likening his style of play to that of Novak Djokovic.
